Dungeness Crab Capital of the World®
Newport, Oregon, proudly holds the title of the Dungeness Crab Capital of the World®, a testament to its rich crabbing heritage and the abundance of these delectable crustaceans in its waters. Whether you're a seasoned crabber or a curious newcomer; catching, cleaning, and savoring Dungeness crab in Newport is an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once. Here’s everything you need to know to start your crabbing adventure. Let's Get Crackin'™
Catching Dungeness Crab
Preparation and Gear
Embarking on a crabbing adventure in Newport is as thrilling as it is rewarding. Before you hit the water, ensure you have the right gear:
Crab Pots or Rings: Choose between crab pots for a longer set or rings for a quicker catch.
Bait: Fresh bait such as chicken, fish carcasses, or turkey legs works best.
Crab Gauge: For measuring your catch to ensure they meet legal size requirements.
Buoys and Ropes: Properly marked to avoid losing your gear.
Make sure to check the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations and obtain a shellfishing license before heading out.
Methods
Crabbing in Newport offers a variety of experiences, whether from the shore or a boat:
From a Boat: Set your crab pots outside navigational channels and allow them to sit for 30-60 minutes before retrieval. Use a crab davit to make lifting easier.
From a Dock: Tie your crab line to the dock, throw your pot or ring into the water, and wait 10-15 minutes before pulling it in.
Popular crabbing spots in Newport include the Port of Newport public fishing pier and the piers of Abbey Street and Bay Street on the Historic Bayfront.
Cleaning Your Catch
After a successful day of crabbing, it's time to clean your catch. This process can be simple and satisfying, preparing your crab for a delicious meal:
Boil the Crabs: Submerge the crabs in boiling water for about 15 minutes.
Cool Them Down: Quickly cool the crabs in ice water to stop the cooking process.
Remove the Shell: Pull off the top shell and remove the gills and intestines.
Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the crab to ensure it’s clean and ready to eat.
This step ensures your Dungeness crab is ready for the table, clean and delicious.
Enjoying Your Dungeness Crab
The reward for your efforts is a feast of fresh Dungeness crab. Here’s a simple way to enjoy your catch:
Steam or Boil: Reheat the cleaned crab in boiling water or steam for a few minutes.
Serve with Butter: Crack the crab legs and claws open and dip the sweet meat in melted butter.
Pair with Sides: Enjoy your crab with sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Exploring Newport’s crabbing culture is a rewarding experience that combines the thrill of the catch with the joy of a delicious meal. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic views while setting your pots or savoring the sweet, tender crab meat, Newport truly lives up to its title as the Dungeness Crab Capital of the World®. So grab your gear, head to the coast, and make some unforgettable memories crabbing in Newport!
For more information and resources, check out the Dungeness Crab Trail and plan your next crabbing adventure in Newport, Oregon.
